Archived News – 2016

Group Dentistry Now, a multimedia company dedicated to the DSO/Group Practice dental market, published their list of “Top DSO and Dental Group Practice Events of 2016.” Dykema’s Annual Definitive Conference for DSOs was among those listed with the group, with Group Dentistry Now stating, “Overall if you were looking for an opportunity to meet smaller group practices, mid-sized DSOs or PE groups this conference was a winner.”

Dykema is proud to announce that it has acted as outside legal counsel for Atar Capital, a Los Angeles-based, global private equity firm, founded by Cyrus Nikou, in its acquisition of Furmanite Inspection Services, a division of Team, Inc., and one of the leading independent inspection and integrity services companies in North America.

Lance Boldrey, Lansing-based member of Dykema’s Gaming & Indian Law practice group, and leader of the firm’s emerging Cannabis Law practice team, was quoted in a Detroit Free Press account of a Native-American band’s lawsuit in U.S. District court to conclusively determine the legitimacy of its reservation in Michigan’s northwest Lower Peninsula.

In the Automotive World article, “V2V Tech Deployment ‘raises novel and extremely complex issues,’” Paul Laurenza, a member of Dykema’s Automotive Industry Group and Chairman of the Connected Vehicle Trade Association, insightfully explains the challenges associated with the proposed V2V rule requiring the installation of crash-avoidance systems in new passenger vehicles. Among other issues, Laurenza discusses manufacturer liability and the retrofitting of older automobiles with connected-car apparatus.

Lance Boldrey, Lansing-based member of Dykema’s Gaming & Indian Law practice group, and leader of the firm’s emerging Cannabis Law practice team, was quoted in the Law360 article, “Smoke Point: How BigLaw Finally Learned to Try Pot.”

Bonnie Mayfield, a member of Dykema’s Litigation and Labor & Employment practices, recently served as a featured speaker at the Defense Research Institute’s Insurance Coverage and Practice Symposium, which took place in New York, New York.

Robert Boonin, Detroit and Ann Arbor-based member in Dykema’s Labor & Employment Practice Group, was quoted extensively in the Society for Human Resource Management article, “DOL Seeks Expedited Review of Overtime Appeal.” In the story, Boonin puts forth reasons why the DOL request for a speedy appeal following the blocking of the new overtime categories may not be granted.

Robert Boonin, Detroit and Ann Arbor-based member in Dykema’s Labor & Employment Practice Group, was quoted in the Society for Human Resource Management article, “Trump Faces Choice on Overtime Appeal.” In his comments, Boonin surmises that the next administration might propose additional overtime rules adjusted for various categories and sizes of businesses.

Samuel Damren, Detroit-based member of Dykema’s Litigation Department, authored the Detroit Free Press Op-Ed article, “Immigration advocates sue for border patrol transparency,” which discusses a lawsuit filed by the Michigan Immigrant Rights Center and immigration researchers, who are represented pro bono by Dykema, along with the American Civil Liberties Union of Michigan, under the federal Freedom of Information Act.

Robert Boonin, Detroit and Ann Arbor-based member in Dykema’s Labor & Employment Practice Group, was quoted in the Society for Human Resource Management article, “Overtime Rule Hang-Up Requires Careful Communication About Pay Decisions.” In the article, Boonin cautions that workers may have false expectations about adjustments to raises and bonuses in light of employee reclassifications to non-exempt status.

Thomas B. Alleman, Dallas-based member in Dykema’s Commercial Litigation Practice Group and Director of the firm’s Insurance Industry Group, is the author of the article “Bank Websites Attract ADA Claims: A Survey of the Issues,” featured in BloombergBNA.

On November 23, 2016, before an overflow courtroom crowd and several Chicago media outlets, Dykema’s David Bressler, representing the Illinois High School Association (IHSA), a long-time firm client, successfully argued against a Temporary Restraining Order sought by Fenwick High School after Fenwick was denied a berth in the state championship football game as a result of an admittedly erroneous call by a game official. Bressler was ably assisted by firm attorneys Melanie Chico and Jon Ibarra.

Dykema Cox Smith, a leading national law firm, today announced that Arlene Switzer Steinfield, Dallas-based Senior Counsel in the firm’s Labor and Employment Practice, was recognized in D CEO’s special edition, The Dallas 500. Steinfield was one of only six honorees recognized in the area of “Law-Labor and Employment.”

Dykema is proud to announce that Corporate America magazine has named it the ‘Most Innovative Law Firm of 2016, Michigan.’ Corporate America’s in-house awards team chose Dykema following months of research assessing some of the most competitive, cutting-edge and inventive law firms.

Edward S. Weil, Chicago-based member and director of Dykema’s Financial Industry Group, praised the U.S. District Court’s appointment of a trustee to manage the bankrupt taxi company in a Law360 story, “Ch. 7 Trustee Takes Over Yellow Cab Bankruptcy.” Weil represents the creditor’s committee in the case, along with Dykema attorneys Richard M. Bendix, Jonathan E. Aberman, Maria A. Diakoumakis and John F. Rhoades.

Robert Boonin, Detroit and Ann Arbor-based member in Dykema’s Labor & Employment Practice Group, was quoted in a post-election article in the Society for Human Resource Management speculating about a reversal of the new Overtime Regulations (reclassifying certain exempt employees as non-exempt) once the next President has been sworn in.

Tom Alleman, Dallas-based member in the Commercial Litigation Practice Group and Director of the Insurance Industry Group, was quoted extensively in the AMBest article, “Observers Question Practicality of ACA Replacement Emphasizing Health Savings Accounts.”

Robert Boonin, Detroit and Ann Arbor-based member in Dykema’s Labor & Employment Practice Group, was quoted in the Society for Human Resource Management article, “President’s Appointment Power on Trial at Supreme Court.”

On Monday, October 31, the United States Supreme Court heard arguments in a case involving one of Dykema’s pro bono clients, a 12-year-old girl from Jackson, Michigan, Ehlena Fry, and her family. At the heart of the appeal is whether students in certain circumstances can bring claims under the Americans with Disabilities Act without first exhausting administrative processes under a separate law.

In partnership with the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce, Dykema's Chicago Office recently hosted the first public event for the Chamber's Council on Logistics & Transportation. The forum featured a bi–partisan U.S. congressional panel. The three members of Congress in attendance at the forum were Cheri Bustos (D-East Moline), Rodney Davis (R-Taylorville) and Mike Quigley (D-Chicago).

Dykema is proud to announce that the Korean American Bar Association of Chicago (KABA) selected Dykema as the recipient of its inaugural Distinguished Sponsor Award. KABA chose Dykema because of the firm’s commitment to diversity in the legal profession and its consistent support of the KABA Diversity Scholarship, among other things.

Deborah D. Williamson, San Antonio-based member in Dykema’s Bankruptcy Practice Group and an American Bankruptcy Institute (ABI) commissioner, was quoted in the Houston Chronicle story, “Bankruptcies Hit Oilfield Services Hardest Now,” about the growing number of insolvencies among petroleum support businesses as a result of the oil bust.

William C. Lentine, Bloomfield Hills-based member in Dykema’s Taxation and Estates Practice Group, was named one of 30 “Up & Coming Lawyers” for 2016 by Michigan Lawyers Weekly. A luncheon celebrating the honorees will be held December 1 at the Detroit Marriott Troy, Michigan, and each attorney recognized will be profiled in a special issue distributed at the event and in the December 5 issue of Michigan Lawyers Weekly.

R. Lance Boldrey, Lansing-based member of Dykema’s Gaming & Indian Law practice group, and leader of the firm’s emerging Cannabis Law practice team, was quoted in the ConstructionDive article, “Cannabis Conundrum: The High Risks and Rewards of Legalized Marijuana for the Construction Industry.”

Lisa Brown, Detroit-based member in Dykema’s Products, Class Actions & Professional Liability Practice Group and Dykema hiring partner, participated in a panel discussion promoting “Life as a Lawyer in Detroit” to an audience of law school students.

Dykema, a leading national law firm, is pleased to announce that Marty Truss, member and co-leader of its Energy Industry Group, will be honored by St. Mary’s University School of Law this Friday, October 21, at the University’s 2016 Distinguished Law Graduate Dinner. Truss, who earned his J.D., summa cum laude, from St. Mary’s School of Law in 1996, will be honored along with the Honorable Donna Rayes of the 81st Judicial District of Texas as the two Distinguished Law Graduates this year.

Michael Wippler, Office Managing Member of Dykema’s Los Angeles office, is a Los Angeles Business Journal nominee for its annual “Leader in the Law” awards. On October 18, 2016, the Los Angeles Business Journal recognized Wippler and other nominees at a luncheon held at the JW Marriott Los Angeles L.A. Live.

Casey Koppelman, Bloomfield Hills-based member in Dykema’s Real Estate Practice Group, was mentioned in the Law360 article “Dalfen Sells More Than $100M In Properties Across 5 States.” Koppelman was mentioned in reference to his role representing Dalfen America Corp. on four of their dispositions in selling more than $100 million worth of properties across five different states. The portfolio has a total of 1.12 million square feet.

Ernie Aliseda, McAllen-based member of Dykema’s Commercial Litigation Group, was recently selected by Senator Ted Cruz as co-reviewer of Texas applications to West Point, Annapolis, the Air Force Academy, the Coast Guard Academy, and the Merchant Marine Academy. Aliseda is also a Lieutenant Colonel and Military Judge in the U.S. Army Reserves.

William Kohler, Detroit-based senior counsel in Dykema’s Corporate Finance Practice Group and co-leader of the Firm’s Autonomous and Connected Vehicle Team, was quoted in the Politico article, “Industry-Wary NHTSA May Step in Front of Driverless Cars.”

Dykema, a leading national law firm, today announced the addition of Craig Woods to its Commercial Litigation Practice Group and Dental Service Organizations Industry Group as a member in the firm’s Dallas office.

James D. Obermanns, Bloomfield Hills-based member in Dykema’s Labor & Employment Practice Group, was quoted in the Fortune Magazine article, “Why States Are Asking Small Business to Solve the Retirement Crisis.”

Mike Bernard, Detroit-based member of Dykema’s Corporate Finance Practice Group, was quoted in the Crain’s Detroit Business article “Companies await Supreme Court ruling on attempts to curb class-action lawsuits.” The article discusses how Southeast Michigan employers may need to rethink the way they manage the risk of lawsuits from their workforce depending on a future U.S. Supreme Court decision on whether employee class-action claim waivers are legal.

Ernie Aliseda, McAllen-based member of Dykema’s Commercial Litigation Group, recently participated in the Texas Young Lawyers Association’s civics education program at local high schools in concert with the City of McAllen and the McAllen Independent School District.

Paul M. Laurenza, a member of Dykema’s Government Policy Practice Group and Managing Member for the firm’s Washington, D.C., office, is the author of “FDA Guidance Clarifies Treatment of Consumer Health and Fitness Products” in the Product Safety & Liability Reporter.

Robert Boonin, Detroit and Ann Arbor-based member in Dykema’s Labor & Employment Practice Group, was quoted in the Society for Human Resource Management article, “Overtime Rule May Result in More Off-the-Clock Work.”

Dykema is proud to have been ranked in the top 15 percent of all law firms in both Complex Employment Litigation and Complex Commercial Litigation in BTI Litigation Outlook 2017: Changes, Trends and Opportunities for Law Firms. The report, which is BTI Consulting’s annual, in-depth analysis of current and future trends in litigation, is based on direct client feedback from more than 330 independent, in-depth interviews with corporate counsel at the world’s largest companies.

Harold D. Pope, Detroit-based senior counsel in Dykema’s Products, Class Actions & Professional Liability Practice Group, was the subject of a lengthy interview in the Detroit Legal News, “Lead Role: Former National Bar President Continues to Help Pave the Way.”

Robert Boonin, Detroit and Ann Arbor-based member in Dykema’s Labor & Employment Practice Group, was quoted in the Society for Human Resource Management article, “Multiple States and Business Groups Challenge Overtime Rule.”

Dykema, a leading national law firm, announced today that Dennis M. Haffey, Bloomfield Hills-based member of the firm’s Litigation Department, was inducted as a Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers, one of the premier legal associations in North America. The induction ceremony took place before an audience of approximately 800 persons during the recent 2016 Annual Meeting of the College in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Dykema served as the only law firm sponsor for the World Mobility Leadership Forum, an exclusive, invitation-only discussion on how modern mobility solutions can solve challenges around the globe. The forum, which took place at The Westin, in the Detroit Metropolitan Airport on September 28-29, 2016, featured prominent speakers from throughout the transportation industry.

Sheryl Toby, Bloomfield Hills-based member of Dykema's Bankruptcy & Insolvency Practice Group, co-authored the article “Doing the Deal Right: Mitigating the Threat of Insolvency Before It’s Too Late,” which appeared in Business Law Today.

Jonathan Feld, Chicago-based member and leader of Dykema’s Government Investigations and Corporate Compliance group, will serve as a featured presenter at the Loyola University Chicago Journal of Regulatory Compliance's inaugural symposium, "Complying with Law." The event will take place on Friday, September 23, at the Philip H. Corboy Law Center in Chicago.

On September 8, 2016, Mark G. Malven, Ann Arbor-based member and leader of Dykema’s Technology and Outsourcing Transactions practice, and Katherine Patton Noll, San Antonio-based member in the Firm’s Taxation Practice Group, both served as featured speakers at the State Bar of Michigan IT Law Section’s Annual Meeting & IT Seminar.

William C. Lentine, Bloomfield Hills-based member in Dykema’s Taxation and Estates group, has been elected to serve a three-year term of service on the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) Joint Trial Board. His term officially begins this year by appointment at the Fall Council/Annual Members Meeting on October 23-25, 2016, and concludes in May 2020.

Jason T. Hanselman, Lansing-based member in Dykema’s Government Policy & Practice group and past-president of the Ingham County Bar Association (ICBA), conducted a Q&A featuring former Dykema attorney Joe Baumann, who is now Vice President & General Counsel of Wolverine Power Cooperative, for ICBA Briefs.

Coming off a hot year in M&A in 2015, dealmakers went into 2016 very optimistic about the market. As a top dealmaker in the industry, we are excited to get your insights for Dykema’s 12th annual “State of the M&A Market” analysis.

Dykema Cox Smith, a leading national law firm, announced today that 30 of its attorneys from the firm’s Texas offices, and from multiple practice areas, were named to the 2016 Super Lawyers list by Texas Super LawyersMagazine. Additionally, Christopher D. Kratovil, Managing Member of the firm’s Dallas office, was also included on two of the Super Lawyers “Top Lists."

Dykema, a leading national law firm, announced today that 44 of its attorneys from the firm’s five Michigan offices, and from multiple practice areas, were named to the 2016 Super Lawyers list by Michigan Super LawyersMagazine. Additionally, 18 of the firm's attorneys were named to the 2016 Rising Stars list. Three of the firm’s Michigan practitioners were also included on Super Lawyers “Top Lists.”

Kathleen Campbell Walker, El Paso-based member and leader of Dykema’s Immigration Team, was the subject of a cover story in the El Paso/Las Cruces City Magazine article “Kathleen Campbell Walker, Leader in Immigration, “Blessed To Be in The Borderland.”

Jack Schaedel, Los Angeles-based member in Dykema’s Labor & Employment Practice Group, provides a thorough analysis of a Federal Court’s stern disapproval of Uber’s proposed settlement with thousands of its drivers in the Inside Counsel article, “Rejection of $84 Million Class Action Settlement Sends Uber Back to the Starting Line.”

Mike Cooney, Detroit-based member and director of the firm’s Litigation Department, is quoted in the National Law Journal article, “Detroit Firms Pin Hopes on Battered City's Rebirth,” which is about Detroit’s ongoing recovery.

A team of attorneys at Dykema, a leading national law firm, successfully represented 20 members of the Texas Legislature in high-profile efforts to overturn a plastic bag ban in Laredo, Texas. The victory – which could affect other Texas cities with similar bans – comes after a lower court upheld the ban following a legal challenge by the Laredo Merchants Association.

Automobile and application providers are competing to fulfill increased consumer demands to be connected to the world even while driving. According to the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute (VTI), engaging in visual-manual subtasks (such as reaching for a phone, dialing, and texting) associated with the use of hand-held phones and other portable devices increased the risk of getting into a crash by three times (May 29, 2013). VTI also found that typical drivers participate in some form of distracted driving activity over 50 percent of the time. Join us in a discussion regarding the clash between personal responsibility and assigning blame to an application provider or vehicle manufacturer.

Heather Frayre, Dallas-based attorney in Dykema’s Immigration practice group, authored the article “K-S-Y And The Athlete-Turned-Coach Immigration Challenge,” for Law 360. The article discusses the extraordinary ability classification for former athletes who have become coaches.

Dykema, a leading national law firm, announced today that 115 of the its attorneys, in multiple practice areas and markets, have been recognized in TheBest Lawyers in America 2017 guide. Additionally, 14 of the firm’s practitioners have been named Best Lawyers 2017 “Lawyer of the Year,” a special distinction conferred upon a single lawyer within a practice area and metropolitan market.

Dykema, a leading national law firm, today announced that Jason T. Hanselman, Lansing-based member in the Firm’s Government Policy and Practice group, has been appointed to serve on the Ingham County Bar Foundation’s (ICBF) Board of Directors for a three-year term.

Aaron Charfoos, Chicago-based member of Dykema’s Intellectual Property Practice Group, was quoted at length in the Legaltech News story, “What Legal Options Do Democratic Donors Have Following a Breach?”

R. Lance Boldrey, Lansing-based member of Dykema’s Gaming & Indian Law practice group, and leader of the firm’s emerging Cannabis Law practice team, was quoted in the Law360 article,“DC Circuit Ruling Apt To Tilt DOI's Land-Into-Trust Tactics.” The article reports on a recent case in which the authenticity of the Cowlitz Indian Tribe was in question.

Alan Greene, Bloomfield Hills-based member of Dykema’s Real Estate and Environmental Department, was recently featured in the Crain’s Detroit Business section, “Special report: The Litigators,” which highlighted 14 lead attorneys behind recent major court action in metro Detroit.

Dykema was recently highlighted as one of the nation’s strongest law firm’s when it comes to client relationships for manufacturing on BTI Consulting’s Mad Clientist Blog. Dykema is one of only 45 law firm’s recognized by manufacturing clients as a firm that makes the investment to understand each company’s legal and business risk—and builds its service offerings and needs around each individual client.

Dykema, a leading national law firm, today announced the addition of Harold D. Pope to its Litigation Department as a senior counsel in the firm’s Detroit office. Prior to joining Dykema, Pope practiced at the Jaffe Raitt Heuer & Weiss office in Detroit.

Jack Schaedel, Los Angeles-based member in Dykema's Labor & Employment Practice Group, will serve as the featured speaker at "Taking the Mystery out of Leaves of Absence," an event sponsored by The San Gabriel Valley Employer Advisory Council in partnership with The California Employment Development Department. The event will take place Wednesday, July 27, 2016.

William Frank Carroll, Dallas-based senior counsel in Dykema’s Financial Services Litigation group, was appointed by the President of the State Bar of Texas for a three-year term as one of the 12 members of the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.

Southeast Michigan-based litigators Heidi Naasko, Dykema's National Pro Bono and Diversity Counsel, and Samuel Damren were both quoted extensively throughout media coverage surrounding a high-profile pro bono case the firm was involved in regarding the overturned sentences and murder convictions of Davontae Sanford, who was found to be innocent after spending nearly a decade in prison for crimes he did not commit.

Thomas B. Alleman, Dallas-based member in Dykema’s Commercial Litigation Practice Group and Director of the firm’s Insurance Industry Group, was quoted in the Business Insurance story, “Cyber Policies Start to Show Their Limitations.”

Stephen L. Tupper, Bloomfield Hills-based member and Leader of Dykema’s Privacy, Data Security, and E-Commerce practice, was interviewed in a Bloomberg Law podcast discussion of vehicular data collection by car manufacturers.

Downtown Detroit isn’t accustomed to F-16 fighter jets tearing through the sky over the Detroit River on a Friday afternoon, but that’s exactly what happened on Friday, June 24. And the fly-by was just the beginning of the third annual Tuskegee Airmen Detroit River Days Airshow, which featured performances over three days during the River Days Festival on the Detroit Riverfront.

Leonard C. Wolfe, Lansing-based member of Dykema’s Government Policy & Practice Group, was quoted in the Crain's Detroit Business Article, "Conflicting bills prompt debate over mission, funding of community colleges."

Paul M. Laurenza, a member of Dykema’s Government Policy Practice Group and Managing Member for the firm’s Washington, D.C., office, has written a cautionary essay for Automotive World titled “The Myth of the Collision-Free Automobile.”

The National Kidney Foundation of Michigan (NKFM) has elected Jin-Kyu Koh as Chairman of the Board. Koh joined the Board in 2011 where he served as Secretary for two years, then Vice Chair until being elected Chairman in June 2016.

Dykema, a leading national law firm, announced today that Brian Melendez and Timothy D. Kelly, both from the firm’s Minneapolis office, have been named 2016 Super Lawyers by Minnesota Super Lawyers Magazine. Additionally, Jared D. Kemper was recognized as a 2016 Minnesota Rising Star.

Steven M. Zeller, Chicago-based member in Dykema’s Intellectual Property Department, was quoted in two Law360 articles, “Patent Cases To Watch In the 2nd Half Of 2016,” and “The Top Patent Cases Of 2016: Midyear Report.”

The U.S. Supreme Court announced today that it will hear the case of Ehlena Fry, a 12-year-old Jackson, Mich., girl with cerebral palsy who, at age 5, was banned from bringing her service dog to class. At the heart of the appeal is whether students in certain circumstances can bring claims under the Americans with Disabilities Act without first exhausting administrative processes under a separate law. Along with the American Civil Liberties Union of Michigan, Dykema is representing the family pro bono.

James M. (Marty) Truss, San Antonio-based member and co-leader of Dykema’s Energy Industry Group, was quoted at length in the San Antonio Business Journal article, “Crude Oil Downturn Keeping San Antonio Lawyers More Than Busy.” Although adverse economic times may lead to legal exigencies such as foreclosures, bankruptcies, and fire sales, Truss notes in his remarks that oil companies usually postpone unnecessary litigation in a distressed market.

Paul M. Laurenza, a member of Dykema’s Government Policy Practice Group and Managing Member of the firm’s Washington, D.C., office, was quoted in the Crain’s Detroit Business article, “Shinola Case Begs Question: What is 'American Made'?”

Robert Boonin, Detroit and Ann Arbor–based member in Dykema’s Labor & Employment Practice Group, spoke on the topic of overtime exemptions at the Society for Human Resource Management 2016 Annual Conference and Exposition.

On the 240th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, Dykema is extremely proud to partner with the National Archives and our client, John Hancock, for the fifth-consecutive year for the July 4th at the National Archives.

Allan Gabriel, Los Angeles-based member and Director of Dykema’s Intellectual Property Department, authored the Inside Counsel article, “Defend Trade Secrets Act: What does it mean in the real world — and what do lawyers do now?”.

Dykema Intellectual Property attorneys Allan Gabriel, Los Angeles-based member and Director of the firm’s IP Department, and Aaron Charfoos, Chicago-based member, co-authored the World Intellectual Property Review article, “The Defend Trade Secrets Act: a valuable tool for IP owners.” The article highlights that if trade secret owners can work out the U.S. Defend Trade Secrets Act’s interplay with state trade secret laws, it will prove to be an effective tool to safeguard IP.

Brian A. Colao, Dallas-based member in Dykema’s Litigation Department and leader of the firm’s Dental Services Organization (DSO) Group, was the subject of an interview by the Dallas Business Journal for an article entitled, “Why private equity firms are rushing into the dental business.”

Elizabeth Khalil, Chicago-based member in Dykema’s Government Policy Practice Group, recently spoke to the State Bar of California’s Business Law Section, Financial Institutions Committee at its monthly meeting. Khalil gave a presentation entitled, “The CFPB’s Arbitration Rulemaking.”

Aaron Charfoos, Chicago-based member of Dykema’s Intellectual Property Practice Group and Litigation Department, was quoted in the World Intellectual Property Review article, “SCOTUS decision in Halo and Stryker not a ‘clear cut’ victory for patentees, lawyers say.”

Dykema, a leading national law firm, today announced that Joanne R. Lax, a Bloomfield Hills-based member of the firm’s Health Care Practice Group, has been elected to the American Health Lawyers Association’s (AHLA) Board of Directors.

Dykema, a leading national law firm, today announced the addition of Sean C. Griffin to its Commercial Litigation Practice Group as a member in the firm’s Washington, D.C., office. Prior to joining Dykema, Griffin practiced at Garvey Schubert Barer in Washington, D.C. He also previously served in the U.S. Department of Justice, Civil Division, where he handled commercial litigation trials and appeals for more than a decade.

Dykema Pro Bono Client Released Today; Wayne County Prosecutor Will Not Retry; In 2008, Professional Hit Man Confessed to Crimes

June 7, 2016

Wayne County Judge Brian Sullivan today vacated the 2008 convictions and sentences of Davontae Sanford who had been serving a 37- to 90-year sentence for a quadruple homicide. Dykema Gossett PLLC, as pro bono Lead Counsel, represents Sanford in coordination with the Michigan Innocence Clinic, the Northwestern Center for the Wrongful Convictions of Youth and the Michigan State Appellate Defender Office. Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy has also agreed to file a motion to dismiss all charges and not to re-try Sanford for these crimes. As such, Sanford will soon be released from custody after nearly nine years of wrongful incarceration.

Robert A. Boonin, Detroit and Ann Arbor–based member in Dykema’s Labor & Employment Practice Group and former Chair of the Wage and Hour Defense Institute, suggests how employers might adjust to pending DOL guidelines in the BloombergBNA Human Resources Report story, “Employers Grappling With New Overtime Rule.”

The efforts of MILegalize, a Michigan grassroots marijuana legalization group, to place cannabis decriminalization on the state’s November ballots, were reported in the Detroit Free Press article, “Petitions to Legalize Marijuana to Face Likely Fight.”

Robert A. Boonin, Detroit and Ann Arbor–based member in Dykema’s Labor & Employment Practice Group, and past chair of the Wage and Hour Defense Institute, was quoted in the Society for Human Resource Management story, “Hospitality Industry Will Have to Weigh Options in Wake of Overtime Rule.”

Elizabeth Khalil, Chicago-based member in Dykema’s Government Policy Practice Group, will serve as co-chair and featured speaker at the American Conference Institute’s 19th Advanced Global Legal & Compliance Forum on Cyber Security & Data Privacy and Protection, which takes place June 23-24 in Chicago.

Peter Kellett, Dykema Chairman and CEO, was quoted in the American Lawyer article, “The Am Law Second Hundred: Taking a Dive,” regarding the firm moving up 29 spots and having the list’s biggest growth in gross revenue.

Robert A. Boonin, Detroit and Ann Arbor–based member in Dykema’s Labor & Employment practice group, and past Chair of the Wage and Hour Defense Institute, shared his reaction to the reprieve accorded employers facing the task of reclassifying exempt and non-exempt worker categories in the Society for Human Resource Management article, “Employer Lobbying on Overtime Rule Led to Changes.”

Elizabeth Khalil, Chicago-based member in Dykema’s Government Policy Practice Group, will serve as featured speaker at the American Conference Institute’s 15th National Forum on Prepaid Card Compliance, which takes place June 2-3 in San Francisco.

Dykema, a leading national law firm, announced today that 20 of its attorneys and 10 of its practice areas have been recognized in the 2016 edition of Chambers USA: America’s Leading Lawyers for Business guide.

Dykema, a leading national law firm, today announced the addition of Susan K. Andersen to its Automotive and Products Liability Practice Group as senior counsel in the firm’s Los Angeles office. Prior to joining Dykema, Andersen spent more than a decade as a trial attorney with Marshall & French in Irvine, Calif.

Dykema, a leading national law firm, today announced the addition of a new member, Abad Lopez, to its Labor & Employment Practice Group in the firm’s Chicago office. Prior to joining Dykema, Lopez practiced at Seyfarth Shaw LLP in Chicago.

Deborah D. Williamson, San Antonio-based member in Dykema’s Bankruptcy Practice Group and an American Bankruptcy Institute (ABI) commissioner, was quoted in the Reuters article, “SandRidge, Breitburn join wave of energy bankruptcy filings.”

Robert A. Boonin, Detroit and Ann Arbor–based member in Dykema’s Labor & Employment practice group, and past Chair of the Wage and Hour Defense Institute, was quoted in the Society for Human Resource Management article, “Breaking the News: When Workers Lose Their Exempt Status.”

Elizabeth Khalil, Chicago-based member in Dykema’s Government Policy Practice Group, will serve as featured speaker for the American Banker Vendor Management Boot Camp webinar series, taking place May 24-26.

Elizabeth Khalil, Chicago-based member in Dykema’s Government Policy Practice Group, and Erin Fonté, Austin-based member in the firm's Corporate Finance Practice Group, will serve as featured speaker at the 30th Annual Windy City Summit, taking place May 25-27. Khalil will serve on a panel discussing mobile payments.

Elizabeth Khalil, Chicago-based member in Dykema’s Government Policy Practice Group and member of the firm’s Financial Industry Group, authored the article “CFPB Rule Is Keen On Restricting Arbitration Clauses,” which appeared in Law360.

Deborah D. Williamson, San Antonio-based member in Dykema’s Bankruptcy Practice Group and an American Bankruptcy Institute (ABI) commissioner, was quoted in The Deal article, “Uptick in Lone Star State filings shows Del. and NY can't mess with Texas.”

Dykema is pleased to announced that it received the 2015 Employer Honor Roll award from University of Illinois. The 2015 Employer Honor Roll recognizes employers who hired recent College of Law graduates in the Classes of 2012, 2013, and 2014.

In the Crain’s article, “Law Firms Create Dedicated Automated-Vehicle Teams,” Paul M. Laurenza, a member of Dykema’s Government Policy Practice Group and Managing Member for the Firm’s Washington, D.C., office, is mentioned as one of several Michigan attorneys engaged in the nascent driverless and Internet-connected car industry.

Jin-Kyu Koh, Detroit-based member and director of Dykema’s Business Services Department, as well as the leader of the firm’s Korean Business Team, spoke at the Michigan Minority Procurement Conference, which was held in Detroit May 3-5, 2016.

Michael G. Cumming, Bloomfield Hills-based member and leader of Dykema’s Tax Practice Group, will served as a featured speaker at the 6th Annual Hot Topics for Financial Executives Seminar, which will be held at the Forest Lake Country Club in Bloomfield Hills on May 11, 2016.

Paul M. Laurenza, a member of Dykema’s Government Policy Practice Group and Office Managing Member of the firm’s Washington, D.C., office, was quoted in the Crain’s Detroit Business article, “Michigan races to stay in the driver's seat on autonomous vehicle legislation.”

Elizabeth Khalil, Chicago-based member in Dykema’s Government Policy Practice Group and member of the firm’s Financial Industry Group, authored the article “Policy Voices: The Data Security Threat in the Mirror,” for the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce.

Elizabeth Khalil, Chicago-based member in Dykema’s Government Policy Practice Group and member of the firm’s Financial Industry Group, was quoted in the American Banker article, “An Add-On Aimed at Coaxing More Millennials into Mortgages.”

Dykema, a leading national law firm, today announced that Christopher D. Kratovil, a member of the firm’s Litigation Department, has been appointed as the Office Managing Member of the firm’s 40-lawyer Dallas office. He succeeds former Dallas Office Managing Member Bill Finkelstein, who will transition his full-time practice to serving the firm as Senior Counsel.

Mark W. Weisbard, Chicago-based attorney in Dykema’s Taxation and Estates Practice, will serve as a featured speaker at the First Midwest event, “Transitioning Closely Held Businesses,” which takes place May 3 in La Grange, IL.

Arlene Switzer Steinfield, Dallas-based senior counsel in Dykema’s Labor and Employment Practice, organized the College of Labor and Employment Lawyers’ 5th Circuit Regional Program. Steinfield, who is the Reginal Activity Coordinator for the College’s 5th Circuit, came up with the idea for the program and pushed it forward to fruition with two co-chairs, Armin Moeller and Clyde Jacob, which she appointed.

Deborah D. Williamson, San Antonio-based member in Dykema’s Bankruptcy Practice Group and an American Bankruptcy Institute (ABI) commissioner, recently authored the second edition of her ABI book When Gushers Go Dry: The Essentials of Oil & Gas Bankruptcy. Texas Lawyer interviewed Williamson about her book in the article, “Resurgence in Energy Bankruptcies Prompts New Edition of Book.”

Deborah D. Williamson, San Antonio-based member in Dykema’s Bankruptcy Practice -dand an American Bankruptcy Institute (ABI) commissioner, was interviewed regarding the recent trend of bankruptcies in the energy industry on Debtwire Radio.

Sheryl Toby, Bloomfield Hills-based member of Dykema's Bankruptcy Practice Group, recently served as a panelist at the American Bar Association's Business Law Section's CLE program "What You See May Not Be What You Get When the Deal Goes Bad. Drafting Transaction Agreements to Anticipate Bankruptcy and Insolvency Issues and Knowing When You Cannot Contract Around Them."

Deborah D. Williamson, San Antonio-based member in Dykema’s Bankruptcy Practice Group and an American Bankruptcy Institute (ABI) commissioner, has authored the second edition of her ABI book When Gushers Go Dry: The Essentials of Oil & Gas Bankruptcy, which will become available Sunday, April 17 at the ABI Spring Conference.

Elizabeth Khalil, Chicago-based member in Dykema’s Government Policy Practice Group, will serve as featured speaker at the American Conference Institute’s Women Leaders in Financial Services Law and Compliance Conference, which will takes place May 12-13 in New York City.

Deborah D. Williamson, San Antonio-based member in Dykema’s Bankruptcy Practice Group and an American Bankruptcy Institute (ABI) commissioner, recently authored the second edition of her ABI book When Gushers Go Dry: The Essentials of Oil & Gas Bankruptcy. The San Antonio Business Journal featured the book and quoted Williamson extensively in the article, “Now they care: Sales surge amid low crude prices for SA lawyer's previously ignored book on oil field bankruptcy.”

Dykema co-sponsored the Michigan State Law Review Symposium on The Transformation of Transportation, which took place April 7-8 in East Lansing, Mich. Professor Nicholas J. Wittner, from Michigan State University's Law College and Of Counsel in Dykema’s Litigation Department, served as the event's faculty adviser. Additionally, both Wittner and Paul M. Laurenza, a member of Dykema’s Government Policy Practice Group and Office Managing Member of the firm’s Washington, D.C., office, served as featured presenters at the event.

James Brady, Office Managing Member of Dykema’s Grand Rapids office, and Mark Magyar, Grand Rapids-based member in Dykema’s Business and Commercial Litigation practice, were each mentioned in the MLive story “MLive fights in court to keep records open in Bobbie Maples homicide case,” regarding their role representing MLive.

Bloomfield Hills-based Tax attorneys William Lentine and David Dunaway presented a Lorman webinar entitled “Sales and Use Tax for Manufacturers in Michigan,” on March 30, 2016. The webinar addressed increased attention to sales and use tax enforcement and collections in Michigan, highlighting that it is more important than ever for manufacturers in Michigan to ensure proper compliance in order to avoid substantial liabilities.

Stephen L. Tupper, Bloomfield Hills-based member and leader of Dykema’s Aviation Transactions Team, was profiled in Civil Air Patrol Volunteer magazine, the official publication of the Civil Air Patrol - United States Air Force Auxiliary.

Phylis Speedlin, San Antonio-based senior counsel in Dykema’s Litigation Group, was inducted into the San Antonio Women’s Hall of Fame at its March 19 gala. Speedlin was inducted in the category of Innovation.

Nineteen Michigan-based Dykema attorneys were recently listed in a supplement in Hour Magazine titled, “Michigan Top Women 2016,” as compiled by Super Lawyers. The supplement was a conclusive listing of each woman from the 2015 Michigan Super Lawyers listing.

Deborah D. Williamson, San Antonio-based member in Dykema’s Bankruptcy Practice Group and an American Bankruptcy Institute (ABI) commissioner, will serve as a featured panelist at the Bloomberg Law and ABI's 2016 Bankruptcy & Restructuring Update on Tuesday, March 29, in New York City.

San Antonio-based Labor & Employment attorneys Donna McElroy and Hannah Hembree will serve as featured panelists at National Association of Women Judges Color of Justice Program on March 22, 2016, at St. Mary’s University School of Law in San Antonio.

Elizabeth Khalil, Chicago-based member in Dykema’s Government Policy Practice Group, will serve as featured speaker at the American Banker Retail Banking Conference, which takes place April 7, 2016, in Las Vegas. Khalil will serve as a panelist for two sessions, entitled, "CFPB Update," and “Cybersecurity Regulation for Financial Services,” respectively.

Aaron Charfoos, Chicago-based member of Dykema’s Intellectual Property Practice Group and Litigation Department, was quoted in the Law360 article, “3 Reasons IP Cases Still Need General Trial Lawyers.”

Jason T. Hanselman, Lansing-based member in Dykema’s Government Policy & Practice group, was quoted in the Law360 article, “Fantasy Sports Could Play Spoiler In Tribal Gambling,” which discusses how daily fantasy sports is bringing a potentially disruptive new element to the Native American gambling industry, with states afraid the game could undermine tribal-state compacts and tribal casinos imagining it as a conduit to Internet expansion.

Allan Gabriel, Los Angeles-based member and Director of Dykema’s Intellectual Property Department, authored the article, “3D printing and the constitution,” which appeared in Intellectual Property Magazine.

Jason Grinnell, Los Angeles-based senior counsel in Dykema’s Real Estate practice group, has been appointed to serve on Law360’s 2016 Real Estate Editorial Advisory Board. The goal of the Editorial Advisory Board is to get feedback on Law360’s national and international coverage on real estate news articles and to gain insight from experts in the field on how best to shape future coverage.

Chicago-based attorneys Richard M. Bendix, Jr., a member of Dykema’s Bankruptcy and Restructuring Practice Group, and Gary P. Segal, a member of the firm’s Corporate Finance Practice Group, have co-authored a chapter in the Thomson Reuters book, Strategic Alternatives For And Against Distressed Businesses, 2016 ed.

Michael Kurtzon, Chicago-based member of Dykema’s Real Estate Practice Group, was recently listed as a Top 10 Real Estate lawyer in the state of Illinois by Leading Lawyers Magazine. The recognition, which was acknowledged in a half-page listing in the publication, is based upon the surveys conducted by Leading Lawyers.

Deborah D. Williamson, San Antonio-based member in Dykema’s Bankruptcy Practice Group and an American Bankruptcy Institute (ABI) commissioner, was a featured in the American Bankruptcy Institute’s (ABI) podcast, “Examining Current Oil & Gas Industry Distress, Providing Outlook for 2016.” ABI Resident Scholar Professor Melissa Jacoby joined Williamson on the podcast to discuss the current distress in the oil & gas industry.

Jonathan Aberman, Chicago-based member in Dykema’s Bankruptcy, Insolvency & Creditors' Rights Group, was the subject of the Law360 article, “Dykema Nabs Vedder Price Bankruptcy Pro In Chicago.” In the article, which highlights his practice and experience, Aberman shares why chose to join Dykema, such as the firm’s national presence and platform.

Ross J. Altman, Chicago-based member and leader of Dykema’s Construction Law practice, will serve as a featured speaker at the American College of Construction Lawyers Annual Meeting on Feb. 20, in Laguna Beach, Calif. Altman’s presentation is entitled, “One Sided Contracts: Do They Pay-Off?”.

Howard B. Iwrey, Bloomfield Hills-based member and leader of Dykema’s Antitrust and Trade Regulation and Securities Litigation practices, will served as a featured speaker in a presentation for the Financial Executives Institute’s New York City Chapter on Feb. 24, in New York City.

Robert Hugh Ellis, Detroit-based senior attorney in Dykema’s Litigation practice group, authored the article, “Making Certain the Settlement You Intend Is the Settlement You Get,” for the Winter Issues of the American Bar Association (ABA) Litigation Journal. In the article, Ellis shares a few practical pointers and observations for litigators to keep in mind when preparing for a settlement.

John A. Ferroli, Grand Rapids-based member in Dykema’s Litigation Practice Group, authored the article, “The Sixth Circuit’s 2015 En Banc Opinions,” for the Michigan Bar Journal. In the article, Ferroli discusses the four en banc opinions issued by the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals in 2015, which tackled some interesting and difficult issues arising in Michigan.

Eric Fingerhut and Jennifer Fraser, Washington, D.C.-based members in Dykema’s Intellectual Property Practice Group, were each ranked in World Trademark Review 1000 (WTR 1000 2016), which recognizes the leading national and international trademark practitioners from around the globe. Both Fingerhut and Fraser, as well as Dykema, received recognition in the United States – DC Metro Area category.

Jason T. Hanselman, Lansing-based member in Dykema’s Government Policy & Practice group and president of the Ingham County Bar Association (ICBA), authored an article for Ingham County Bar Association Briefs titled, “Fantasy or reality? The fight over fantasy sports is kicking off.”

Jacqueline Allen, Dallas-based attorney in Dykema’s Corporate Finance Practice Group, spoke to the Dallas Area Compliance Association at its general meeting on Jan. 27, 2016. Her presentation was entitled "New Military Lending Act Regulations.”

William Frank Carroll, Dallas-based senior counsel in Dykema’s Financial Services Litigation group, and Cody D. Rockey, Ann Arbor-based associated in the Firm’s Antitrust & Trade Regulation Practice, each authored articles for the Winter 2016 edition of The Antitrust Lawyer, which is published by the Antitrust and Trade Regulation Section of the Federal Bar Association.

Jason T. Hanselman, Lansing-based member in Dykema’s Government Policy & Practice group, was quoted in the Law360 article, “The Biggest Native American Law Cases Of 2015.” The article looks back at some of the highest-profile Native American law cases of 2015. In the article, Hanselman touches on the North Fork Rancheria of Mono Indians of California v. California case.